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The Southern District of New York has appointed longtime financial services litigator Henry J. Ricardo of Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP as its newest magistrate judge. Ricardo will succeed Magistrate Judge James L. Cott, who is retiring after 14 years on the bench.

Patterson Belknap Attorney Chosen As Magistrate Judge: Eight-Year Term for Ricardo

The SDNY's Board of Judges selected Ricardo for an eight-year term as magistrate judge, according to the court's announcement on Friday. Ricardo, a Columbia Law School graduate, spent 12 years as a partner at Patterson Belknap's New York office, specializing in complex commercial litigation, bankruptcy, and patent cases.

Chief Judge Praises Ricardo's Expertise

Chief Judge Laura Taylor Swain of the Southern District praised Ricardo's qualifications in a statement, highlighting his "sophisticated commercial litigation skills" and dedication to community outreach. "We are looking forward to his contributions to our court community as our newest colleague on the bench," Swain said.

Notable Litigation Experience

Ricardo's legal career spans several high-profile cases. Notable matters include his work representing Ambac Assurance Corp. in a suit against U.S. Bank NA over losses tied to residential mortgage-backed securities during the 2008 financial crisis. He also represented the National Credit Union Administration's board in a suit against Credit Suisse, alleging the bank misrepresented the quality of mortgage-backed securities sold to two credit unions that eventually failed.

Patterson Belknap Attorney Chosen As Magistrate Judge : A Legacy of Public Service

Patterson Belknap expressed pride in Ricardo's appointment, acknowledging his long-standing dedication to public service and pro bono work. "Mr. Ricardo's selection continues the long tradition of public service by Patterson Belknap attorneys, and we wish him well as he takes his seat on this distinguished bench," the firm said.

Ricardo also played a key role in Legal Outreach’s College Bound summer internship program, leading Patterson Belknap's efforts to provide rising college sophomores with valuable experience in the legal profession.

Before joining Patterson Belknap in 2012, Ricardo was a partner at the now-defunct Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, where he served as a hiring partner and a member of the litigation steering committee.